Dear Cohen Camps families,
Every summer, the Cohen Camps welcome staff from Israel (shlichim) who play a vital role in our mission as Zionist camps. They come to us ready to embrace our camp culture just as we embrace them, enriching the community with their experiences and deepening our connection to Israel. Since October 7, our bond with Israel and the way we integrate our Israeli staff into camp life has taken on added significance.
At Camp Tevya, we are fortunate to have Galia Kovesh as our Rosh Mishlachat (Head of the Delegation). Galia is instrumental in supporting our shlichim during the summer and throughout the year, maintaining strong relationships across multiple summers. In the blog post below, Galia shares her experience at Tevya this summer and reflects on the meaningful role the Israeli staff played in our camp community.
I am excited to share a unique experience from this year’s Israeli delegation to Camp Tevya. As someone who has led these delegations in recent years and has known the camp since 2010, I feel a deep sense of pride and belonging.
Each year, we carefully prepare a special Israeli program to bring to the camp. However, this year was different. Twelve Shlichim (emissaries) joined us straight from the army, carrying with them the weight of war and memories that are still fresh and painful. Despite the challenges, they were met with incredible understanding, support, and empathy from the camp community.
Camp Tevya has always been a place that embraces everyone, but this year, we faced new difficulties. During orientation, seemingly small events triggered memories and trauma for some of the Shlichim. The sound of thunder, Fourth of July fireworks, and other unexpected noises became sources of anxiety. What might have been routine in previous years took on a new and intense significance.
The camp’s response to these challenges was extraordinary. Every situation was handled with care and sensitivity. For example, on the first day, a traditional camp song that included loud noises was modified to ensure the Shlichim felt comfortable. This was just one of many ways the camp’s supportive nature shone through. The phrase “And never, never swim alone,” usually sung with great enthusiasm, was delivered quietly, gently, and thoughtfully this year.
Another memorable moment was when the Bogrim (older campers) presented the Israeli flag as a tribute to Israel, sparking a meaningful discussion on solidarity. The Israeli spirit was even more deeply woven into the fabric of Camp Tevya this summer.
One poignant symbol of this connection was the yellow chair used throughout the summer during services. We introduced a new song called “Our Brothers,” and recited the Kaddish, honoring the names of loved ones and friends of the delegation. On Israel Day, we planted flowers in memory of the fallen, signifying both loss and the hope of renewed growth. The spirit of the “Red South” (Darom Adom), a symbol of resilience from Israel’s south, was also represented. At the waterfront, a fire inscription spelled out the word “Hope,” a sentiment that resonated deeply within the camp.
I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Cohen Camps President Jonathan Cohen, who welcomed us on the first day with words I will never forget: “Buy two maps, and show everyone that our bunk names come from real places in Israel—so we all know, we see, we understand. We are a Zionist camp.” His commitment to fostering a deep connection to Israel was clear.
I also want to thank Executive Director Ben Portnoy for accommodating every request, from arranging a special lunch with Tevya alumni, sisters Ruth and Marjorie Kaplan, to ensuring all details were meticulously planned and executed.
Camp Director Lauren displayed relentless empathy and assertiveness, always fostering constructive dialogue and addressing every need with kindness.
My gratitude extends to the Senior Staff, the large, embracing community, the host families who warmly welcomed us each week, and everyone who, even in passing glances, conveyed understanding. The remarkable bond that formed between the Israeli delegation and the American Jewish community at Camp Tevya was built on these gestures of unity and support.
Thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for making this summer unforgettable.
With Tevya Spirit,
